Sonargaon Old Capital & Panam City Day Tour from Dhaka
Highlights
- Explore the historic capital of Bengal
- Experience the artistry of Jamdani weaving
- Marvel at the elegant Goaldi Mosque
- Discover the rich heritage at the Folk Art and Craft Museum
- Visit the ancient city of Panam Nagar
-
Duration 6-8 hours
-
Private transportation included
-
Air-conditioned vehicle
-
Bottled water provided
-
All fees and taxes included
-
English-speaking guide
Embark on a thrilling journey to explore the old capital of Sonargaon in a truly local way! Just 30 km away from Dhaka, this historic city was once the trading hub for Far East countries and renowned for its Dhakai Jamdani and muslin textiles. Immerse yourself in the rich heritage of Sonargaon as you visit the magnificent abandoned Panam City, the beautiful Goaldi Mosque, the Sardarbar Palace, and the folklore and art museum. Marvel at the intricate motifs of the Jamdani fabric and discover the fascinating weaving techniques. Step back in time and admire the pre-Mughal architecture of Goaldi Mosque. Explore the Sonargaon Folk Art and Craft Museum, housed in the enchanting Sardar Bari, and admire its unique collection. Complete your adventure with a visit to Panam Nagar, an ancient historical city, and a boat ride on the Meghna River, where you can witness the serene beauty of the river and the vibrant village life of Bangladesh. Don't miss this captivating experience!
At a Glance
-
Free cancellation
-
6 hours
-
Instant Confirmation
-
Available in Bengali; Bangla, English, Hindi
-
Mobile voucher
-
Private Tour
-
Guided
-
Family friendly
Featured Reviews
Discover the historical treasures of Sonargaon, Bangladesh, with a local guide on a private tour exploring ancient architecture and vibrant culture.
Included
-
In-vehicle air conditioning
-
Private transportation
-
All Fees and Taxes
-
Bottled water
Excluded
-
Lunch
Pickup
Check if pick-up is available from your location, you will select during checkout (providers may allow other pickup locations)
What to expect
Anwar Jamdani Weaving Factory
Jamdani was originally known as Dhakai named after the city of Dhaka, one of many ancient textile weaving centers in Bengal region.[5] Under the Mughal Empire the Persian term Jamdani came to be in popular use, since it was the court language of the Mughals. Jamdanis are popularly known as Dhakai Jamdani or simply Dhakai. The earliest mention of jamdani and its development as an industry is found into Dhaka, Bangladesh. Jamdani is a hand loom woven fabric made of cotton, which was historically referred to as muslin. The Jamdani weaving tradition is of Bengali origin. It is one of the most time and labor-intensive forms of hand loom weaving, and is considered one of the finest varieties of muslin, and the most artistic textile of Bangladeshi weavers. Traditionally woven around Dhaka and created on the loom brocade, jamdani is rich in motifs. In the first half of the nineteenth century, James Taylor described the figured or flowered jamdani; in the late 19th century, T. N. Mukharji referred to this fabric as jamdani muslin. Whether figured or flowered, jamdani is a woven fabric in cotton. This is a supplementary weft technique of weaving, where the artistic motifs are produced by a non-structural weft, in addition to the standard weft that holds the warp threads together. The standard weft creates a fine, sheer fabric while the supplementary weft with thicker threads adds the intricate patterns to it. Each supplementary weft motif is added separately by hand by interlacing the weft threads into the warp with fine bamboo sticks using individual spools of thread. The result is a complex mix of different patterns that appear to float on a shimmering surface. The pattern is not sketched or outlined on the fabric, but is drawn on a graph paper and placed underneath the warp. Jamdani is a fine muslin cloth on which decorative motifs are woven on the loom, typically in grey and white. Often a mixture of cotton and gold thread was used.
Built in 1519, the graceful, single-domed Goaldi Mosque is the most impressive of the few extant monuments of the old capital city, and a good example of pre-Mughal architecture. This mosque is one of the few remnants from the Sultanate period in Sonargaon, during the reign of Sultan Hussain Shah in 925 Hijri (1519 AD). It was built by Mulla Hizabar Akbar Khan in the early 16th century, during the reign of Alauddin Husain Shah at a place called Goaldi – half a mile northeast of Panam village in Sonargaon. Sonargaon was the administrative center of medieval Muslim rulers of East Bengal. It became as the capital of Bengal during Isa Khan’s ruling. The area falls under present-day Narayanganj District, Bangladesh. This mosque is more elegant and ornate in comparison to the earlier Sultanate mosques at Bagerhat.
Sonargaon Folk Art and Craft Museum
There is a folk art and craft museum for the visitors & tourist travelling in Sonargaon. Sonargaon Folk Art and Craft Museum remains open from morning to afternoon (9 AM to 5 PM). Wednesday and the Thursday, this museum is closed for weekend. This is prosperous with several unique collection those you’ll never find at any other place. Some are lost from our country, and only those are remains. The main museum building is placed at the “Sardar Bari”. “Sardar Bari” was built by a Hindu Zamindar of Sonargaon in 1901. Alike the other Zamindar house of that period, this one also looks like Indian houses, but the shape of the house was looked like the European Palaces. The baroque decoration and the elaborated painting on the plaster of the building are really eye catching.
Panam City is situated at Sonargaon, Narayanganj in Bangladesh. It is an ancient historical city in Bangladesh. Among the three cities of boro nogor (Big City), khas Nogor, Panam City, it was most attractive city. There are many historical buildings which were built centuries ago and those are related with the history of Baro-Bhuyan. It covered 20 km area of Sonargaon. Panam City is one of the most visited tourist spots in Bangladesh. As the capital of the fifteenth-century Bengal ruler Isa Khan, and once an important trading and political center, Sonargaon boasts architecture of the Sultanate, Mughal, and colonial periods. For travelers making their way along the 2,500-kilometer Grand Trunk Road from Peshawar in the Hindu Kush, Sonargaon marked the end of the line. Threats to the site include flooding, vandalism, unauthorized occupation, illegal development etc.
Maya Island
it is a beautiful island location in the middle of the Megha river, to go and visit there we will go by boat to enjoy the river beauty and village life of Bangladesh
The experience can be subject to change due to bad weather or unforseen circumstances. We always endeavour to give you the best possible experience.
Additional Information
-
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
-
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
-
Public transportation options are available nearby
-
Specialized infant seats are available
-
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
What our experts say
-
Try local Jamdani fabric shopping!
-
Visit the Folk Art Museum for unique crafts.
-
Explore nearby Panam Nagar's historical sites.
-
Enjoy a boat ride on the Meghna River.
-
Bring a camera for stunning architecture!
More About this Experience
Introduction
Explore Old Capital Sonargaon in a local way! Sonargaon, the former capital of Bengal, is an enchanting tourist destination steeped in history and culture. Just 30 km away from Dhaka, this city offers a glimpse into the rich trading heritage of the region. In the past, traders from Far East countries flocked here to engage in bustling trade activities. Sonargaon was renowned for its Dhakai Jamdani and muslin fabrics, adding to its allure. Today, this place still retains its charm with fascinating remnants from the pre-Mughal and colonial periods, such as the captivating abandoned Panam City, the elegant Goaldi Mosque, the opulent Sardarbar Palace, and the captivating Folklore and Art Museum. Don't miss the opportunity to visit the Jamdani villages and witness the intricate craftsmanship firsthand.What to Expect?
Embark on a journey to the past and immerse yourself in the historical and cultural wonders of Sonargaon. As you explore this ancient capital, you can expect to be captivated by its architectural marvels, vibrant markets, and the rich tapestry of its heritage. Discover the secrets of the abandoned Panam City, where time seems to have stood still. Marvel at the intricate design and craftsmanship of the Goaldi Mosque. Step into the lavish Sardarbar Palace and feel like royalty. Immerse yourself in the vibrant traditions and artistry of the region at the Folklore and Art Museum. Finally, experience the magic of the Jamdani villages, where skilled artisans weave intricate patterns on handlooms.Who is this for?
This tour is perfect for history enthusiasts, culture seekers, and those with a keen interest in Bengal's rich heritage. Whether you are a solo traveler, a couple, or a group of friends, this experience offers something for everyone. Immerse yourself in the fascinating history of Sonargaon and gain a deeper understanding of Bengal's trading past. This tour is designed to be inclusive, welcoming travelers of all ages and backgrounds. Whether you're a seasoned traveler or someone looking for a unique cultural experience, exploring Old Capital Sonargaon will leave you with lasting memories.Why Book This?
By booking this tour, you will unlock the hidden treasures of Sonargaon and gain a deeper appreciation for its historical significance. Unlike other tours, this experience offers a truly local perspective, providing an authentic glimpse into the daily life and traditions of the region. With private transportation, you can relax and enjoy the scenic beauty of Bangladesh. The tour includes bottled water to keep you refreshed throughout the journey. Travel in comfort with an air-conditioned vehicle, ensuring a pleasant experience in any weather. All fees and taxes are included, eliminating any hassle or hidden costs. Immerse yourself in the rich heritage of Sonargaon and create memories that will last a lifetime.Good to Know
During the tour, it is recommended to wear comfortable clothing and footwear as you explore the various historical sites. Don't forget to carry a camera to capture the beauty of Sonargaon. The tour includes a boat ride to the beautiful island location in the middle of the Meghna River, allowing you to experience the natural beauty and village life of Bangladesh. Lunch is not included, giving you the freedom to choose from the local culinary delights available in the area.Reviews
Travelers who have experienced this tour have been enthralled by the historical sites, cultural immersion, and the knowledgeable guides who provided insights into Sonargaon's past. They have praised the well-organized itinerary, comfortable transportation, and the opportunity to witness the traditional art forms and craftsmanship firsthand. Visitors have expressed their satisfaction with the overall experience, highlighting the tour as a must-do for anyone interested in exploring the hidden gems of Sonargaon.This is a popular product and the date you are looking for just sold out. Next available date is